re: If you were upgrading your acoustic, what would you get?(Posted by TigerPanzer on 1/31/13 at 11:43 am to A Mite Ee One)

I have three acoustics and my go-to is a Taylor 110. If you're looking for a sure thing in overall satisfaction, you can't go wrong with a Taylor, even in the under-$1000 price range (which is where, I've been told, Martins fall a bit short). My present upgrade plan is to get a Taylor 12-string to replace my Seagull Coastline.

re: If you were upgrading your acoustic, what would you get?(Posted by Jester on 1/31/13 at 1:10 pm to TheDoc)

It really depends. I am not as obsessed with brand, as each individual guitar (even within the same model line and production run) has it's own personality in tone and feel. That said, I'd start looking at the high end Gibsons, Martins, Taylors, Breedloves, and Babiczs.

re: If you were upgrading your acoustic, what would you get?(Posted by Jester on 1/31/13 at 1:13 pm to Jester)

Wait, I think I'm misunderstanding. Are you looking for guitars on a small budget? I took "any budget" to mean money was not an issue. I would definitely avoid cheap Martins.

One of the main things you need to pay attention to is the wood type and quality. Not all spruce is the same. This is where you need to see the guitar and play it yourself to know its unique qualities. My Breedlove ran about $1300 and I have nothing but great things to say about it.